Let’s face it. Figuring out where to stay in Yosemite can be daunting. In fact, finding any form of Yosemite lodging at all can feel like winning the national park lottery depending on the season. Still, even when booking accommodation well ahead of time or during off-peak periods, the options seem endless and the areas wide-reaching. From hotels to cabins to tents to campsites spanning across Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite West, El Portal and Groveland – it’s tough to narrow down the choices.
The good news is – we’ve done all the hard work for you and compiled 21 of the best places to stay in and near Yosemite, undoubtedly one of California’s most beautiful national parks. With train, bus and flight options departing from multiple locations within the state, Yosemite is a great national park option for those visiting with or without a car.
WHERE TO STAY IN YOSEMITE
Click on a link below to skip to a specific Yosemite lodging category
- Where to Stay in Yosemite Valley
- Where to Stay in Tuolumne Meadows
- Yosemite South Entrance Lodging – Most Direct from LA
- Yosemite Arch Rock Entrance Lodging – Most Direct from SF
- Lodging Near Yosemite Hwy 120 Entrances – Less Traveled Route
WHERE TO STAY IN YOSEMITE VALLEY
The crown jewel of the national park, the vast majority of visitors spend the bulk of their time in Yosemite Valley. Home to icons such as El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, the Valley has gained immense popularity for good reason. Summer brings substantial crowds, and lodging is extremely competitive due to high demand coupled with limited supply. If wanting to base yourself in the Valley (as most do), your best bet is to book as far in advance as possible. Campsites typically sell out within minutes of being released, and formal lodging options often book a year ahead of time during high season.
LODGING IN YOSEMITE VALLEY
Ahwahnee Hotel ($$$$)
#1 Traveler-Ranked Hotel in Yosemite Valley on TripAdvisor
Smack dab in the middle of Yosemite National Park, you’ll find the Ahwahnee Hotel (formerly the Majestic Yosemite Hotel). Dubbed “luxury on the valley floor,” this lodge boasts incredible views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. Although a luxury option, the Ahwahnee is a place you should experience at least once in your life, and is the perfect splurge for special occasions or a Yosemite elopement or honeymoon.
Rooms start at $518 per night.
Compare rates and book: Direct | Expedia | Hotels.com
Yosemite Valley Lodge ($$$)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Located right in the middle of the Valley, Yosemite Valley Lodge is a fantastic option for groups and families. Featuring stunning views of Yosemite Falls, it’s the ultimate base camp for those wanting to be in the thick of it all with easy access to major hikes and attractions. Just be forewarned that this lodge books out up to 12 months in advance during the Spring and Summer high seasons.
Rooms start at $200 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
YOSEMITE VALLEY CAMPING CABINS
Curry Village ($-$$)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
The largest lodging facility in Yosemite Valley, Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) offers motel rooms, traditional cabins and canvas camping cabins with plenty of dining options. This spot is central and sells out quick, so book 10 to 12 months in advance if possible.
Units start at $92 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Housekeeping Camp ($$)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
The experience of camping outdoors without the hassle of setting up a tent, Housekeeping Camp is made up of three-sided concrete structures with canvas roofs and privacy curtains. Located in the middle of the valley next to the Merced river, spend the day lounging in the sand or taking in the views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. Each camping cabin at Housekeeping Camp features a bunkbed, double bed, table, chairs, mirror, lighting and electrical outlets.
Units start at $108 per night.
Compare rates and book: Direct | Expedia | Hotels.com
YOSEMITE VALLEY CAMPING
There are 13 campgrounds alone in Yosemite National Park and that’s not including the many bordering its boundaries. If wanting to camp in Yosemite Valley, planning ahead is your best bet as most campsites are reserved within minutes of reservations opening each month. Below are a few of our favorite campground options in the park.
Camp 4 (Tent Only)
Rated #7 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Probably the most famous of the camping options, Camp 4 is where you’ll find world renowned rock climbers ready for their ascent up the hovering El Capitan. If looking for a central spot in the park, Camp 4 is your best option. Reservations are required late May through October via a daily lottery and first-come, first-served throughout the rest of the year. Facilities include a fire pit (no grill), picnic table, four shared food lockers, nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $10 lottery fee + $10 per person per night. Enter the daily lottery now.
Photo Credit: Mailoha A. on HipCamp
Lower Pines Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #4 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Featuring iconic views of Half Dome and riverside campsites, Lower Pines is another one of our favorites. Centrally located within the Valley, you’ll be within easy reach of all the main sights. Reservations are required between April 14 and October 22, 2022; the campground is closed throughout the remainder of the year. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $36+ per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Photo Credit: Jaspery G. on HipCamp
Upper Pines Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #2 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Located just west of Lower Pines Campground, those based at Upper Pines aren’t far from all of the top attractions in the park. Reservations are required year-round, though it’s worth noting that in 2022 the campground will be closed between January 31 and February 11 for annual hazard tree removal. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker, and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $36 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Photo Credit: Kristy W. on HipCamp
North Pines Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #5 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Located right across the Merced River from Lower Pines, this neighboring campground is also one of the more popular options within Yosemite Valley. Reservations are required between April 11 and October 22, 2022; the campground is closed throughout the remainder of the year. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $36 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
WHERE TO STAY IN TUOLUMNE MEADOWS
Situated roughly 60 miles from Yosemite Valley at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet, Tuolumne is one of the highest subalpine meadows in the entire Sierra Nevada. Far from the hustle and bustle of the Valley, this section of the national park is an excellent option for those wanting to escape the crowds. Accessed via Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance, Tuolumne has developed cult-like status among select Yosemite veterans who return to the meadow year after year. It provides a completely different experience to what one typically thinks of when they think of Yosemite, and is the starting point for numerous backpacking routes.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge ($$)
Rated #2 of 25 Specialty Lodging Options in Yosemite on TripAdvisor
Comprised of 69 canvas tent cabins, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge sits nearly 9,000 feet above sea level and is typically open between mid-June and mid-September, weather permitting. Located along Hwy 120 (about 60 miles from Yosemite Valley), each camping cabin sleeps up to 4 and includes lanterns, a wood burning stove and free firewood. Communal showers and restrooms are available, but tent cabins are not equipped with electricity.
Units average $140 per night. Check availability and book.
White Wolf Lodge ($$)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Situated along Tioga Rd approximately 30 miles from Yosemite Valley, White Wolf Lodge is perfect for those hoping to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds. Made up of 24 canvas camping cabins and 4 traditional wood cabins, all units come with towels, bedding and a heat source. Traditional cabins have the added perk of electricity and a private bathroom.
Reservations: White Wolf Lodge was closed in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but is scheduled to re-open in Summer 2022. The Lodge is typically operational between mid-June and mid-September, weather permitting.
Units start at $137 per night. Check rates and availability.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Set along Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows was one of John Muir’s favorite spots in the park. The perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the Valley, Tuolumne is much quieter than most campgrounds in Yosemite. Due to its location along Hwy 120, check road conditions in advance for closures.
Reservations: Tuolumne Meadows Campground is undergoing a major rehabilitation project and will remain closed in 2022 and 2023.
YOSEMITE SOUTH ENTRANCE LODGING
Most direct access to Yosemite from Los Angeles
Yosemite’s iconic South Entrance accesses the park via Hwy 41 and is the most direct option for those traveling from Southern California. Visitors entering from this direction are treated to Tunnel View – a sweeping vista over Yosemite Valley that emerges as you exit Wawona Tunnel. Easily one of the most astounding views in the world, pictures absolutely don’t do it justice. The closet towns to Yosemite’s South Entrance are Wawona and Fish Camp – both of which offer wonderful lodging options.
Wawona Hotel ($$-$$$)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
A National Historic Monument, the Victorian-era Wawona Hotel first opened its doors in 1856. Located within Yosemite National Park, but about 30 miles from the Valley, the property consists of 50 rooms with ensuite baths and 54 rooms with shared baths. Typically open between March and November, the hotel has a 9-hole golf course, an outdoor swimming pool and riding stables. During summer, there are BBQ nights every Saturday.
Rooms start at $153 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com
Tenaya Lodge ($$-$$$)
Rated 8.4 out of 10 on Booking.com
Nestled about 2 miles from the park entrance, Tenaya Lodge is one of the most popular hotel options near Yosemite. Offering modern amenities including a spa, onsite restaurant and more — you might almost forget you’re right next to national park wilderness. For what’s offered at this chalet-style hotel, you can’t beat the price, and wifi is included in room rates.
Rooms start at $150 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Priceline | Booking.com
Alpenglow 1 ($$$-$$$$)
Rated 9.2 out of 10 on Booking.com
This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit comfortably sleeps 4 to 6 and can accommodate up to 8 if its sofa bed is put to use. Equipped with a kitchen, dishwasher, balcony, fireplace, A/C and WiFi, it’s hard to beat in terms of value for money. Situated just a 20-minute drive from the heart of Yosemite Valley in a forested section of Yosemite West, it’s also one of the most well located places to stay in the area.
Rates start at $660 per night for the unit.
Check rates and book: Expedia | Vrbo | Hotels.com | Priceline | Booking.com
Chinquapin Retreat ($$-$$$)
Rated 4.8 out of 5 on Vrbo
A cozy option for 2 to 4, this 1-bedroom cabin (with an added sofa bed) offers tree-top views, a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi and private parking. Best of all, it’s located just 17 miles from the Yosemite Valley floor.
Rates average $395 per night for the unit.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Vrbo | Booking.com
ARCH ROCK ENTRANCE LODGING
Most direct access to Yosemite from San Francisco
Accessing the park via Hwy 140, Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance is the quickest option for those traveling from San Francisco. Nearest to this entry point is the sleepy village of El Portal, with Midpines and Mariposa sitting further west. All three towns offer a variety of lodging options (both in terms of hotels and airbnbs). Yosemite Valley is just 12 miles from the Arch Rock Entrance, making it wildly convenient.
Yosemite View Lodge ($$-$$$)
Rated 4.1 out of 5 on Expedia
Overlooking the Merced River and just 2 miles from the national park entrance, Yosemite View Lodge is an excellent option for those arriving from the Bay Area. The hotel has 335 rooms, all of which include a kitchenette and many of which include balconies with outdoor spas. The property also features multiple pools and hot tubs (both indoor and outdoor), a restaurant, a cocktail lounge and a convenience store.
Rooms average $240 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Priceline
Yosemite Cedar Lodge ($$)
Rated 7.4 out of 10 on Booking.com
Although basic, Cedar Lodge offers reliable value and features an indoor pool. Located about 20 miles from the Valley, it’s often the most affordable option you’ll find in or near the park outside of Yosemite’s camping cabins and campgrounds.
Rooms start at $85 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Priceline | Booking.com
AutoCamp Yosemite ($$$)
Rated 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com
This unique glamping property is located an hour from Yosemite Valley, but doesn’t skimp on the amenities, making the relatively long trek to the park worth it. Each trailer is equipped with a Tempurpedic mattress, organic linens and spa-inspired bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower and fluffy robes. There’s also a communal clubhouse, a freshwater pond, heated pool, sundeck and outdoor lounge areas.
Rates start at $150 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
LODGING NEAR HWY 120 ENTRANCES
Lesser Traveled Route from San Francisco to Yosemite
For those wanting to take the road less traveled, entering Yosemite via Hwy 120 through the Big Oak Flat or Hetch Hetchy Entrance is the best option. Hetch Hetchy is the northernmost entrance on the west side of the park and is a natural treasure that those in the know would prefer to keep secret. Wildflowers are on full display in this area during Spring, and Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is an impressive sight to behold in its own right. Alternatively, Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance sits south of Hetch Hetchy near the town of Groveland.
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite ($$-$$$)
Rated 9.2 out of 10 on Booking.com
Situated in Buck Meadows, Rush Creek Lodge is surrounded by forest and located less than a mile away from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance. Featuring an outdoor pool, two hot tubs, a spa, restaurant, tavern, pool bar and more, this property leaves nothing to chance and is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring in the park.
Rooms start around $230 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Priceline | Booking.com
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite ($$-$$$)
Rated 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com
This historic property flawlessly combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Units range from standard rooms to 2-bedroom cottages, and each unit includes an ensuite bathroom, refrigerator and electric kettle. The property features an on-site restaurant, bar, coffee house, mini-market, pool, hot tub, outdoor fire pit and more. Situated just one mile from the Hetch Hetchy Yosemite National Park entrance, it’s also well located.
Rooms start around $150 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Pine Mountain Magic ($-$$)
Rated 9.0 out of 10 on Booking.com
This cozy lakeside cabin near Yosemite North Gateway comfortably sleeps up to 8 and features a game room! You’ll be fully equipped at Pine Mountain Magic with 4 bedrooms, a washing machine and a fireplace.
Rates start around $165 per night for the home (excl. taxes and fees).
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Vrbo | Booking.com
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed.
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